Okan Buruk sets attacking lineup for Galatasaray's away trip to Sporting

Galatasaray closed out the Süper Lig week with an away win over Başakşehir, securing three points on the road. Attention quickly shifted to the upcoming Champions League fixture against Sporting following the result. Ahead of the crucial away match in Portugal, coach Okan Buruk has begun finalising the attacking players he plans to field.

An injury suffered during the Başakşehir match is now directly affecting Galatasaray's plans for Sporting. Victor Osimhen was forced off the pitch after picking up a knock during the game. The club confirmed that the Nigerian striker has a strain and pain in his right groin muscle group, with treatment starting immediately and further medical tests expected to be completed the same day. According to reports, Barış Alper Yılmaz is set to lead the attack in the striker's absence during the trip to Sporting.

Attention has also turned to Rafael Leao, who came off the bench in the second half against Başakşehir to make his Galatasaray debut. According to one report, the Portuguese star is expected to start on the bench against Sporting and be introduced depending on how the match unfolds, with Leroy Sane and Yunus Akgün featuring on the wings. However, according to another report, Buruk—well aware of Leao's familiarity with Lisbon—is reportedly preparing to hand him a starting role on Wednesday.

Leao's brief cameo against Başakşehir already made an impression, as he provided the assist for Torreira's goal. Despite not yet being at full fitness, he is considered to be operating above the level of the Süper Lig even in his current condition. Galatasaray will travel to face Sporting in their opening Champions League league-phase match on Wednesday, September 9, kicking off at 22:00 local time.